LAS VEGAS — A long-vacant site across from Mandalay Bay could soon become one of the most recognizable landmarks on the Las Vegas Strip.
Clark County commissioners unanimously approved plans this week for a heart-shaped hotel-casino resort at the former SkyVue observation wheel property. The approval clears a major hurdle for a project that aims to replace one of the city’s most famous unfinished developments.
For years, two towering concrete support columns have stood as reminders of the failed SkyVue Ferris wheel project. Now, developers want to turn the nearly 12-acre site into a modern entertainment destination with a unique design and several new attractions.
A bold design for the south Strip
The proposed resort will feature a 29-story hotel tower with 752 guest rooms. Its signature feature is a giant heart-shaped opening framed by an LED-covered glass exterior that will light up the Las Vegas skyline.
Developers also plan to reuse the two existing SkyVue support towers. Instead of tearing them down, they will build a sky restaurant about 265 feet above the ground. As a result, the abandoned structures could become one of the resort’s biggest attractions.
More than a hotel
The project includes much more than guest rooms.
Plans call for a casino, more than 42,000 square feet of convention space, restaurants, bars, retail shops, a resort-style pool and a covered pedestrian plaza. In addition, the plaza will create a walkable entertainment district similar in concept to Fremont Street Experience, although on a smaller scale.
Developers originally proposed a taller building with 874 rooms. However, they reduced the height by about 60 feet after working with the Federal Aviation Administration because of the property’s location near Harry Reid International Airport. Consequently, the final design now includes 752 rooms.
Approval moves the project forward
County commissioners approved the zoning requests on July 22 after hearing details about the revised proposal.
Although construction has not started, the vote allows the developer to continue through the permitting process. Officials believe the project could finally bring new life to one of the Strip’s most visible vacant properties.
Meanwhile, development continues throughout the south Strip. The area is already seeing significant investment, and this resort would add another major destination across from Mandalay Bay and near Allegiant Stadium.
If construction moves forward, the heart-shaped resort could become another iconic addition to Las Vegas. At the same time, it would replace a long-standing eyesore with a modern hotel, casino and entertainment complex designed to attract visitors from around the world.
Project Information
Project: Heart-Shaped Hotel & Casino Resort
Location: Former SkyVue site, across from Mandalay Bay, Las Vegas Strip
Developer: Kulik River Capital
Status: Approved by Clark County; construction timeline has not been announced.
Steelman Partners
Website: Steelman Partners
About the Author
Discover more from JUSTNOWNEWS®
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
